Tagus 3.7.2 Institutional Structures and Policies 3.7.2.1 Institutional Structures The Tagus basin is managed by a basin organisation in Spain, the "Confederacion Hidrografica de Tajo" (CHT), and by the National Institute for Water, INAG in Portugal, harmonising the management by three Regional Water Departments. In 1998 the Luso-Spanish Convention on the use of shared rivers came into effect. This replaced the earlier agreements of 1964 for the Douro river and of 1968 for the remaining shared rivers, in which the Tagus was included. The new agreement is a more modern one aiming at the sustainable use of water and the protection of the water quality in the shared rivers. Detailed regulations for minimum flows in the Tagus are part of the Additional Protocol to the Convention. This stipulates a minimum annual flow at the downstream border of 2700 hm3 with derogation in case of a dry year (precipitation from October to March <60% than the average of the wet semester, or <70% if annual rainfall in the previous year is <80% than the average) [28] .

The Convention is not basin-specific but deals with all basins, and regulates the sharing of water and the protection of its quality. No operational secretariat exists in the sense of the example of the ICPR, but co-operation is stimulated by regulating information exchange and consultation mechanisms. There is a bilateral Committee for the Application and Development of the Convention that acts as a working group of the superior body, the Ministerial Conference. One distinct characteristic of the Convention is that the operational structure for water-quantity management (water sharing, flood warning) is much more developed than that for water-quality management. 3.7.2.2 Policies Given the objective of improvement of water quality in general, in the case of Spain defined in the form of quality objectives for each stretch of the river for drinking-water production, the countries have adopted policies to decrease the discharge of effluents to the surface-water system. In Spain and Portugal, all the EC Directives have been incorporated into the legislation. Quality objectives for each stretch of the river depend on the designated water use in a defined stretch and quality objectives are according to the requirements of the corresponding EC Directive.

The policy to decrease the discharge of effluents to the surface water system was laid down in decree DL152/97, stipulating that no later than by the end of 2005 all settlements with more than 2000 inhabitants must have realised the prescribed treatment capacity. For settlements with more than 15,000 inhabitants, this date is set at the end of 2000. With respect to pollution licenses for the discharge of industrial waste water in Portugal, the situation is poor in the sense that only a small fraction of industrial sites actually have pollution licenses, and an even smaller fraction actually monitors its discharges as prescribed. Considering that the legislation regulating the discharges of different sources of pollutants mostly originates from the late 1990s, it can be expected that this policy will bear results in the short to medium term. 3.7.3 Environmental Issues 3.7.3.1 Hydromorphology and Flow Regulation One characteristic of the Tagus basin is the proliferation of small, medium and large dams and their corresponding reservoirs. The total storage capacity is 14 km3, or 74% of average annual runoff in the basin.

In the largest part of the basin natural flow conditions have now been replaced by regulated flow conditions. The impact of this ongoing process of flow regulation on the morphology of the river as well as on the aquatic and other ecosystems in the river basin has not been well studied. 3.7.3.2 Water quality The main environmental pressures on the river are caused by pollution from industrial and municipal point sources and diffuse sources. Figures 3.7.2 and 3.7.3 show the numbers of municipal and industrial point sources and the percent of area of each type of land use considered as diffuse sources in the Portuguese basin of the Tagus river. Table 3.7.1 shows estimated total loads for some parameters (BOD, COD, TSS, P and N). The general classification of water quality that is used in Portugal (see par. 3.7.5 ) indicates the very bad state of the river Tagus. In the National Water Plan a classification was established on the basis of the annual classification with 9 parameters. Of the 43 classified stations, 84% had categories D or E, being very polluted or extremely polluted. The border station generally classifies as extremely polluted.

With respect to eutrophication in Portuguese reservoirs, the Basin Plan [27] presents a classification of 28 reservoirs, out of which 32% were classified hyper-eutrophic, 46% were classified eutrophic, and 22% were classified as mesotrophic. In Spain, 42% of the 133 classified reservoirs were found to be eutrophic. These figures are difficult to compare since both countries use different eutrophication classification systems. The Basin Plan for Portugal signals a significant number of cases in which the legal requirements for water quality related to potable water production, irrigation and swimming purposes, are not met (information of 1994-1997). On the Spanish side, some 79% of water intakes in reservoirs present a water quality inferior to the legal requirements for the production of potable water. Metals are not considered to be a problem in the basin. For organic micropollutants the situation is difficult to assess since data is scarce.

As an illustration of the development of water quality, the dissolved oxygen concentrations in two key stations on the river are shown below ( Figures 3.7.4 and 3.7.5 ). The station Valada is close to the Tagus estuary, while Perais is close to the border with Spain. 3.7.4 Monitoring programmes 3.7.4.1 Routine monitoring The quantity and quality routine monitoring networks for surface waters implemented in the Tagus river are shown in table 3.7.2 : In Portugal the monitoring programmes developed by INAG, are implemented by three Regional Environment and Land Use Planning Departments (DRAOT) sharing the basin's management. The routine monitoring of water-quality parameters in the basin came into operation in the beginning of the 1990s. In Spain the routine monitoring of water-quality parameters is implemented by CHT. Water-quality monitoring is not standardised, neither between the countries nor within the countries. For example in Portugal, the water-quality stations in the main river have different sets of parameters that are being monitored, depending on the DRAOT under whose responsibility they fall.

The sampling frequency is monthly and the measured parameters are dependent on the specific objectives attributed to each station, such as water supply, border inflow control, environmental impact, flow, reference status and fish life. These objectives were selected based on the human pressures and on the water uses according to the Decree Law 236/98 (see par.3.7.2). A minimum package of 20 parameters monitored in all stations. These include general parameters (pH, temp., EC, TDS), oxygen-related determinands (saturation, BOD, COD), nutrients (NH4, PO4, NO3), bacteriological determinands (total and faecal coliforms, faecal streptococcus) and some metals (Zn, Cu, Cr, Cd, Pb, Hg). The stations under jurisdiction of DRAOT Lisboa e Vale do Tejo (green in the map) are presently the only ones where some pesticides, herbicides and industrial chemicals like PCBs are also monitored since 1999.

This situation however is changing due to the restructuring of the monitoring activities currently under way by INAG, that will harmonise the water-quality monitoring programmes in all DRAOTs in accordance with EU requirements. Figure 3.7.6 shows the water-quality network for the Tagus river basin in Portugal. The names of stations mentioned are the names of the stations at the main river (Perais, Barca da Amieira, Alb de Belver, Tramagal, Almourol, Omnias and Valada-Tejo), one in the Erges river, a tributary of the Tagus, one at the border (Segura) and one at the reservoir which is the main water supply source to Lisbon (Alb. Castelo de Bode). More information concerning both water quality and quantity for the Tagus basin's surface waters as well as its groundwater can be accessed directly from a database available through the Portuguese site Water quality has been systematically controlled in Spain since 1962, when the COCA Network was created, made up of a series of 50 control stations for the whole basin, where periodic sampling was carried out to control 19 parameters.

This Network has grown over time and is currently made up of 403 stations which are classified according to their control objectives, as follows: Pre-treatment Network made up of 57 periodic sampling stations in water collection points for towns with more than 10,000 inhabitants and another 346 water collection points for towns with less than 10,000 inhabitants. Here approximately 40 parameters are monitored. Fishing Resources Network, which has 15 control stations. Here 17 parameters are monitored. In 1993 the ICA Network was created incorporating 157 periodic sampling stations, with stations that form three networks: Basic General Quality network (20 parameters), Complete General Quality network (40 parameters) and European Economic Community network (18 parameters). Figure 3.7.7 shows where these stations are located. Its objective is to control water quality for water supply, bathing and fish resources. Finally, and within the framework of the SAICA project, 31 automatic alert stations have been set up which provide continuous information on several quality parameters and transmit data in real time to the Control and decision-taking Centre.

These stations are located at key points (see Figure 3.7.8 ), such as the connection points for supplying towns and cities, where it is important to detect a change in any of the quality parameters immediately, so as to be able to take corrective action immediately. The introduction of an Automatic Hydrological Information System (SAIH) in the Tagus Basin began in 1995 and went into operation in 1998. The SAIH PROGRAM had been launched throughout the Spanish peninsula ten years earlier. The program started in the Mediterranean basins, which are the ones, which suffer from the greatest irregularity in rainfall levels, with long periods of shortage alternating with torrential rains with catastrophic effects. The SAIH is made up of a hydrological-hydraulic data collection and real-time transmission network and a system for storing and processing the information received, which makes it possible to implement the most suitable measures to reduce catastrophic effects of flooding.

The SAIH in the Tagus Basin has an information network made up of 202 control points (see Figure 3.7.9 ) distributed along its path, a satellite transmission system, three Operational Centres, four Data Presentation Centres and the Control Centre for the basin, situated in Madrid. Its purpose is flood prevention and to improve the way the hydraulic systems are used in order to save water and ensure an efficient supply system. The control network is made up of 43 rainfall measurement points, 18 rain and snow checkpoints, 47 reservoirs, 52 river gauges, 7 flood control points, 22 network control points and 12 thrust control points. A series of sensors is installed in each control point to collect and transmit data relating to rain - whether liquid or solid -, water levels, moving flows, the position of valves and floodgates and other variables which allow those concerned to know, in real time, the hydrological and hydraulic condition of the basin. No specific monitoring programme for sediments is operated on a basin-wide level. Eco-toxicological tests are not performed routinely.

Monitoring information is published on the Internet in both countries, and presented to the public in electronic form, either in digest format and reports or directly from the database. The Portuguese site ( ) is fully operational, as is the Spanish site ( hispagua.cedex.es ). 3.7.4.2 Early-warning Systems On the basis of the Luso-Spanish Convention INAG, and CHT operate early-warning system for water quantity (flood warning) and water quality (pollution accidents). This early-warning system is largely geared towards flood warning, with the monitoring system and warning protocols well developed. The system is less developed for water quality and pollution events. No information was available with respect to the communication infrastructure of authorities between the countries and within the countries in case of pollution events, or of protocols for emergency actions. An emergency plan for dams is now in preparation in Spain. Specific monitoring stations for this purpose have been recently installed. 3.7.5 Assessment Methodologies Water-quality directives from the EU have been incorporated into the national systems in both countries. For example, the Directive 75/440/EEC has been incorporated into both Portuguese and Spanish legislation concerning the classification of surface water for the production of potable water.

Three classes are distinguished, for which different treatment methods are prescribed by law. In Spain, water-quality objectives have been defined in terms of these potable water production suitability classes, and a map of the Tagus and its tributaries indicating the desired suitability class of the various stretches is the basis for water-quality management. In Portugal the classification system adopted by INAG is not an index but a classification system with 5 different classes, according to different water uses, following Decree no 236/98. In Portugal, the INAG developed a system for water-quality classification for routine management and information for the public in general. The classification of surface water for multiple uses makes use of monthly data and is based on 27 parameters. It distinguishes five pollution classes, ranging from unpolluted (A) to extremely polluted (E). It is presented in Annex 3.7.1 . In terms of legal compliance, the classification follows the Decree Law 236/98 according the water uses. For eutrophication of reservoirs, the classification used is based on the OECD methodology with some adjustments.

The system is based on seven parameters (PO4, average chlorophyll, maximum chlorophyll, average annual transparency, minimum transparency, abundance, DO). In Spain, quality objectives for each section of the rivers have been set based on the designated use: water supply (S1, S2 and S3), Fishing Resources (Salmonicolas (S), Ciprinicolas (C) and waters suitable for Bathing (B), establishing the concentrations of BOD5, suspended solids, N-NH4, P-PTOTAL. Annex 3.7.2 shows these objectives per river. 3.7.6 Environmental Status 3.7.6.1 Hydromorphology The morphology of the river system has changed profoundly with the construction of a large number of dams, creating reservoirs ranging from small to very large. As a result, flow conditions have changed from natural to regulated. Only exceptional precipitation events now lead to flood situations. The influence of the reservoirs and the changed flow conditions on the ecological system of the Tagus river have been profound, but systematic data are not available.

3.7.6.2 Water Quality In tables 3.7.3 and 3.7.4, the annual classification of the surface-water quality for multiple purposes (as used by INAG for the border station at Perais and at Valada, upstream the estuary) is presented for the period 1995-2000. This classification is based on monthly values for each parameter sampled. The methodology used is to consider the C95 of each parameter. The final classification is made on basis of the worst parameter. The water quality at Perais, at the border, is relatively poor, especially because of the nutrient load that increased significantly in the last years. The Valada sampling station controls the water-supply source to Lisbon. In general this station presents better water quality than Perais. The problems here are due to microbiological pollution rather than nutrient load. 3.7.6.3 Ecology With respect to the biological status, very little systematic information could be found.

The Basin Plan of the Portuguese stretch of the river presents only lists of "best conserved" and "recovering" basin habitats and ecosystems, mentioning lists of species for some, as well as a general description of three different stretches of the river on the Portuguese side. In Spain the conservation and recovery of aquatic ecosystems is an explicit objective mentioned in the basin plan for the Tagus. Particular mention is made of the establishment of minimum ecological discharge limits, the battle against pollution, and the preservation of river bank areas. Lisbon Photos - Portugal Map, Europe Maps Portugal Map Information - World Atlas Lisbon Photos - Portugal Map, Europe Maps Portugal Map Information Lisbon, Portugal Lisbon is the capital and largest city of Portugal. Lisbon was once home to some of the world's greatest explorers, like Vasco da Gama, Magellan and Prince Henry the Navigator, and its influence spread across the planet. Today Lisbon is recognised as a global city because of its importance in the arts finance, commerce, media, entertainment, international trade, education, and tourism Lisbon has two sites listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site: the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery.

The city is also rich in architecture; Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, Baroque, Modern and Postmodern buildings can be found all over Lisbon. In Lisbon, downhill, uphill cobbled streets, narrow alleys, yellow trams, unpainted walls, mosaics and the remains of the Arab past are everywhere. It's a very beautiful city. The Christ the King statue is a Catholic monument and shrine dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus Christ overlooking the city of Lisbon. It was inspired by the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. At the mouth of the Tagus river and guarding the entrance to the city of Lisbon is Torre de Belem or Belem Tower. The Tower was built as a fortress between 1515-1521, and is of significant historical importance. It was from here that the caravels (small, highly maneuverable sailing ships) set out on their vovages of discovery to Africa and beyond. Monument to the Discoveries is a monument on the northern bank of the Tagus River estuary in Lisbon, consisting of a 52-meter-high slab of concrete carved into the shape of the bow of a ship.

The monument celebrates the Portuguese Age of Discovery (or Age of Exploration) during the 15th and 16th centuries. Conceived in 1939 by Portuguese architect Jose Angelo Cottinelli Telmo, and sculptor Leopoldo de Almeida for the Portuguese World Fair in June 1940. The figure of Henry the Navigator is upper right. He was an important figure in the early days of the Portuguese Empire and responsible for the early development of European exploration and maritime trade with other continents. And speaking of hilly streets, Lisbon looks very much like San Francisco, California, as this is a typical street. An extensive tramway network serves the municipality of Lisbon. In operation since 1873, it presently comprises five urban lines. Locals ride the trams (or trolley cars) up and down the very hilly streets, and tourists love them. There are so many colorful corners in Lisbon it's hard to decide what to photograph; this small church is but one. The Castle of Sao Jorge is a Moorish castle occupying a commanding hilltop overlooking the historic center of Lisbon and the Tagus River.

The strongly fortified citadel dates from medieval period of Portuguese history, and is one of the main tourist sites in the city. Lisbon Photos (Page 1) 1 | 2 European Rivers - Rivers of Europe, Map of Rivers in Europe, Major Rivers in Europe - Worldatlas.com print this map Hundreds of rivers and their tributaries cross the European continent. Here we highlight those over 600 miles in length, and a few others of note. DANUBE: Beginning in the Black Forest region of Germany, it flows across central Europe and the countries of Austria, Hungary, Croatia and Yugoslavia. It then forms the border between Romania and Bulgaria, turning north across Romania to eventually end in the Black Sea. It is (1,771 miles) (2,850 km) in length, and one of the most significant commercial waterways on the continent. DNIEPER: Rising in the southwestern part of the Russian Federation, it flows generally south through Belarus, then southeast through Ukraine, ending in the Black Sea. Overall it's (1,420 miles) (2,285 km) in length.

DON: Beginning it the southwestern Russian Federation, to the south of Moscow, it flows southeasterly towards the Volga, then turns abruptly west, ending in the Sea of Azov. Overall it's (1,224 miles) (1,969 km) in length. ELBE: Rising in the Czech Republic, the Elbe River then flows north through Germany, ending in the North Sea near Cuxhaven. It's (724 miles) (1,165 km) in length. LOIRE: Recognized as the longest river in France, the navigable Loire begins in the foothills of the Massif Central, then flows north and west across the heartland of France, finally ending in the Bay of Biscay. It's (634 miles) (1,020 km) in length. ODER: Rising in the rugged mountains of the eastern Czech Republic, it flows west and north through south-central Poland, eventually emptying into the Baltic Sea. It's (567 miles) (912 km) in length.

PO: Italy's longest river begins in the upper reaches of the Alps, flowing west to east across northern Italy, ending in the Adriatic Sea. It's (405 miles) (652 km) in length. RHINE: Forming in the mountains of southeastern Switzerland, this legendary river flows west, forming Switzerland's northeastern border with Germany, then runs directly north through western Germany forming part of that country's border with France, then finally dissecting the Netherlands and ending in the North Sea. Numerous tributaries and branches run in all directions, and in overall length is (820 miles) (1,319 km). RHONE: Begin high in the Swiss Alps, this fast moving river flows into the eastern end of Lake Geneva, then south through south-eastern France, emptying into the Mediterranean Sea. Small branches run in all directions, and in overall length, it's (300 miles) (485 km). SHANNON: Rising in northwestern Ireland, it flows south through a series of lakes, then turns west to eventually empty into the Atlantic Ocean. It's 230 miles (370 km) in length.

TAGUS: The Tagus River rises in the central highlands of Spain, flowing southwest across Portugal, then south to Lisbon and the Atlantic Ocean. It's 626 miles (1,007 km) in length. VOLGA: The Volga is the largest river in European Russia in terms of length, discharge, and watershed. It flows through central Russia, and is widely viewed as the national river of Russia. It's 3,692 km (2,294 mi) long Portugal: Crossing the Ponte 25 Abril bridge in Lisbon over the River Tagus/Rio Tejo - YouTube Portugal: Crossing the Ponte 25 Abril bridge in Lisbon over the River Tagus/Rio Tejo Want to watch this again later? Sign in to add this video to a playlist. Need to report the video? Sign in to report inappropriate content. Rating is available when the video has been rented. This feature is not available right now. Please try again later. Published on Oct 20, 2015 Portugal: Crossing the Ponte 25 Abril bridge in Lisbon over the River Tagus/Rio Tejo.

Filmed on board the 1410 Faro to Lisbon (Oriente) Intercidades service hauled by CP class 2600 electric locomotive number 2603. Recorded 9th May 2005. -+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+ The 25 de Abril Bridge (Ponte 25 de Abril "25th of April Bridge" is a suspension bridge connecting the city of Lisbon, capital of Portugal, to the municipality of Almada on the left (south) bank of the Tejo river. It was inaugurated on August 6, 1966, and a train platform was added in 1999. Because it is a suspension bridge and has similar coloring, it is often compared to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, US. It was built by the American Bridge Company which constructed the San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge, but not the Golden Gate. With a total length of 2,277 m, it is the 27th largest suspension bridge in the world. The upper deck carries six car lanes, while the lower deck carries two train tracks electrified at 25 kV AC.

Until 1974, the bridge was named Salazar Bridge. The name "25 de Abril" commemorates the Carnation Revolution. Upon completion the bridge had the longest suspended span and the longest main span in Continental Europe, the world's longest continuous truss, and the world's deepest bridge foundation. It was the fifth-largest suspension bridge in the world, the largest outside the US. Today it is the 27th largest suspension bridge in the world. -+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+ Lisbon is the capital and the largest city of Portugal, with a population of 552,700[4] within its administrative limits in an area of 100.05 km². Its urban area extends beyond the city's administrative limits with a population of around 2.7 million people, being the 11th-most populous urban area in the European Union. About 2.8 million people live in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area (which represents approximately 27% of the country's population). It is continental Europe's westernmost capital city and the only one along the Atlantic coast. Lisbon lies in the western Iberian Peninsula on the Atlantic Ocean and the River Tagus.

The westernmost areas of its metro area is the westernmost point of Continental Europe. Lisbon is recognised as a global city because of its importance in finance, commerce, media, entertainment, arts, international trade, education and tourism. It is one of the major economic centres on the continent, with a growing financial sector and one of the largest container ports on Europe's Atlantic coast. Lisbon Portela Airport serves over 18 million passengers annually, as of 2014, and the motorway network and the high-speed rail system of Alfa Pendular link the main cities of Portugal. The city is the 7th-most-visited city in Southern Europe, after Istanbul, Rome, Barcelona, Madrid, Athens and Milan, with 1,740,000 tourists in 2009. The Lisbon region contributes with the highest GDP PPP per capita of any other region in Portugal. It also ranks as the 10th highest GDP of metropolitan areas in the EU amounting to 110 billion euros and thus €39,375 per capita, 40% higher than the average European Union's GDP per capita.

The city occupies 32nd place of highest gross earnings in the world. Most of the headquarters of multinationals in the country are located in the Lisbon area. It is also the political centre of the country, as seat of Government and residence of the Head of State. Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world, and the oldest in Western Europe, predating other modern European capitals such as London, Paris and Rome by centuries. Julius Caesar made it a municipium called Felicitas Julia, adding to the name Olissipo. Ruled by a series of Germanic tribes from the 5th century, it was captured by the Moors in the 8th century. In 1147, the Crusaders under Afonso Henriques reconquered the city and since then it has been a major political, economic and cultural centre of Portugal. Unlike most capital cities, Lisbon's status as the capital of Portugal has never been granted or confirmed officially – by statute or in written form. Its position as the capital has formed through constitutional convention, making its position as de facto capital a part of the Constitution of Portugal. Lisbon enjoys a Mediterranean climate.

Among all the metropolises in Europe, it has the warmest winters, with average temperatures 15 °C (59 °F) during the day and 8 °C (46 °F) at night from December to February. The typical summer season lasts about six months, from May to October, although also in April temperatures sometimes reach around 25 °C (77.0 °F). -+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+ Tagus River | river, Iberian Peninsula | Britannica.com river, Iberian Peninsula river Tagus River, Portuguese Rio Tejo, Spanish Río Tajo, longest waterway of the Iberian Peninsula . It rises in the Sierra de Albarracín of eastern Spain , at a point about 90 miles (150 km) from the Mediterranean coast, and flows westward across Spain and Portugal for 626 miles (1,007 km) to empty into the Atlantic Ocean near Lisbon . Its drainage basin of 31,505 square miles (81,600 square km) is only exceeded on the peninsula by that of the Ebro River , to the northeast.

The Tagus covers the heart of Portugal and Spain and has been of vital importance to the modern economic development of the two nations. Tagus River, Port. Okamok The upper Tagus cuts into limestone rocks and flows generally southwestward through narrow, sinuous valleys with deep canyons and abundant ravines. Near Trillo (Guadalajara province) it runs more peacefully, and just before the town of Bolarque it is held back by the dams of Entrepeñas and Buendía, forming an artificial lake known as the Sea of Castile, which covers an area of 51 square miles (132 square km). Again flowing southwestward, the river irrigates the fertile lands of Aranjuez and the areas around Toledo and Talavera de la Reina until it reaches the province of Cáceres. Here it again flows through narrow, steep-edged trenches formed by quartzites and shales. At Puente de Alcántara another dam on the river has formed one of the greatest man-made lakes in Europe , with a length of 57 miles (92 km).

Less than 10 miles (16 km) downstream the river becomes the frontier between Spain and Portugal for 27 miles (43 km). It enters Portugal at Beira and the Sierra de Carbajo, then crosses the fertile region of Abrantes. After flowing across Portugal for 111 miles (179 km), it forms at Vila Franca de Xira the Tagus (or Lisbon) estuary, emptying into the Atlantic Ocean. Toledo is the only large Spanish city that lies along the river, which flows past the cities of Santarém and Lisbon in Portugal and supplies the latter with a fine natural harbour. Only the lower portion of the river is used for navigation of any importance. Similar Topics Panoramic Lisbon & Tagus River Cruise Panoramic Lisbon & Tagus River Cruise Find a Port search more Panoramic Lisbon & Tagus River Cruise Explore Lisbon from a unique perspective during this picturesque tour of the city via river boat and bus.

Europe's second-oldest capital (after Athens), once home to the world's greatest explorers like Vasco da Gama, Magellan and Prince Henry the Navigator, becoming the first true world city, the capital of an empire spreading over all continents, from South America to Asia. The former launch pad for many of the world's greatest voyages is now where modern travelers discover its history. Depart the pier for the brief drive to the nearby riverboat terminal, and embark your vessel for a scenic, 1.5-hour cruise along the Tagus River's estuary. Tagus River Cruise Along the way, discover the beauty and charm of Lisbon as seen from the river. See a Roman castle perched on a hilltop and a 12th-century cathedral in the centre of Alfama's Moorish District before passing under the spectacular April 25th Suspension Bridge. In the distance is the monumental statue of Christ the King, built to honour Portugal's neutrality during World War II. Take a sail along the banks of the Belem area on your private boat. En route, see the 15th-century New Harbour and a memorial to Prince Henry. Your river boat cruise concludes with a look at the Royal Monastery of St.

Jerome and the unique Belem Tower, built as a fortress to defend the harbour of the wealthy Portuguese capital during the 15th and 16th centuries. These historic buildings date from the Discovery Period and the reign of King Manuel I. Lisbon City Tour Upon returning to the river boat terminal, re-board your coach for a scenic sightseeing drive through the centre of Lisbon. As you proceed along the main streets and squares, a brief stop is made at the top of King Edward VII Park for spectacular views of the city and harbour. From here, continue past Pombal Square, the famous Liberty Avenue, Rossio, the very heart of Lisbon, and the historic Baixa District en route to the unique Comercio Square, which is located along the waterfront. Your tour of Lisbon concludes with a brief return drive to the pier. Please note: This tour requires a minimal amount of walking, including a 300-foot (91 metre) walk from the coach to the river boat cruise terminal over a cobblestone path. Guests are encouraged to bring a light windbreaker with them on board the river boat. During the cruise, orange juice, mineral water, finger sandwiches and petit fours will be served on board the boat.

The tour sequence may operate in reverse. A minimum number of participants are required to operate this excursion. The river boat is fully air-conditioned and is wheelchair accessible. Tagus | Article about Tagus by The Free Dictionary Tagus | Article about Tagus by The Free Dictionary Also found in: Dictionary , Thesaurus , Medical , Wikipedia . Tagus (tā`gəs), Span. Tajo, Port. Tejo, river, c.585 mi (940 km) long, rising in the mountains E of Madrid, E Spain, and draining the central part of the Iberian Peninsula. The Tagus flows northwest through the mountains, past Teruel, then north across the Meseta of central Spain, past Toledo, to form part of the Spanish-Portuguese border. Entering Portugal, it flows southwest, past Santarém and into the Atlantic Ocean at Lisbon. The estuary of the Tagus (12 mi/19 km long) is one of Europe's finest harbors; one of the longest suspension bridges in Europe, the Ponte 25 de Abril, spans the estuary. The Tagus is navigable for c.80 mi (130 km) upstream.

Its lower and upper courses pass through deep gorges and are broken by waterfalls. Many dams and reservoirs have been built on the Tagus and its tributaries to generate hydroelectric power and provide water for irrigation. There have been efforts to reforest the land surrounding the river. The chief tributaries of the Tagus are the Alagón and Jarama rivers. Tagus (Spanish, Tajo; Portuguese, Tejo), a river in Spain and Portugal. The longest river on the Iberian Peninsula, the Tagus is 1,010 km long and drains an area of 81,000 sq km. It originates in the Montes Universales and crosses the New Castile plateau from east to west and, in its lower course, the Portuguese lowland. It empties into the Atlantic Ocean, forming an estuary 45 km long. In the upper and middle courses, the valley is narrow and there are numerous rapids; in the lower course, the valley is wide and the river channel has caved in in places. The river is fed primarily by rain; there is high water from November through March and low water in summer.

The mean flow rate at Alcántara, near the Spanish and Portuguese border, is 438 cu m per sec. The Tagus and its tributaries are used for irrigation and hydroelectric power. There are several reservoirs with hydroelectric power plants on the river, including Buendía, Valdecañas de Tajo, and Alcántara in Spain. The river is navigable to Santarém (Portugal) for oceangoing vessels and to Abrantes (Portugal) for other vessels, a distance of 185 km from the mouth. The cities of Toledo (Spain) and Santarém are on the Tagus, and Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, is on the estuary. Tagus a river in SW Europe, rising in E central Spain and flowing west to the border with Portugal, then southwest to the Atlantic at Lisbon: the longest river of the Iberian Peninsula.

Length: 1007 km (626 miles) Europe's riverfronts offer tourists something new - CNN.com Madrid Rio has been transformed from a highway to an urban river paradise River Spree embodies the formerly divided Berlin's attempts to respect its history and future Follow the River Thames to the Docklands for a tour of the city's shipping past You've fed the birds in London's Trafalgar Square. Lit a candle in Notre Dame in Paris. Enjoyed that relaxing cup of cafe con leche in Madrid's Plaza Mayor. What next? If the usual itinerary of cathedrals, palaces and souvenir shops has ceased to thrill, maybe it's time to abandon the well-trodden tourist circuit on your next trip to Europe and head to the river. During the past two decades, a number of European cities have invested heavily in redeveloping blighted industrial river fronts, turning them into charming urban retreats that emphasize sustainability, sports and local culture. Visitors can explore on foot, or cycle, skate and even skateboard along these riverfront renovations that artfully combine traditional and modern elements to reveal a bit of each city's soul.

Madrid Rio Spain's royal family once enjoyed pastoral views of Madrid's Manzanares River from Palacio de los Vargas. But until recently, the Manzanares, consumed by a major motorway constructed along its banks, was unrecognizable. The traffic-clogged highway cut the river off from the city center, barred public access and enveloped nearby neighborhoods in a cloud of pollution. What do you get for $60,000 a night? Today, a six-mile stretch of the Manzanares known as Madrid Rio is one of Europe's newest, most ambitious riverfront projects. The old motorway has been removed, replaced with a greenbelt that features more than 25,000 trees, foot paths, a variety of athletic and playground facilities and scenic vistas and bridges from which to observe city landmarks. Madrid Rio also links up with other green corridors, including cycling paths that extend throughout the city. Once an enormous slaughterhouse, Matadero Madrid is one of the most stunning transformations of Madrid Rio. It's now a contemporary cultural center featuring art exhibits, creative workshops, music festivals, documentary film and theatrical performances. 10 ultimate U.S.

adventures A short walk from Matadero, the newly expanded Arganzuela Park includes three large pools alongside the river for wading and playing amid lively fountains. Lounge chairs and umbrellas provide pleasant waterside spaces for sunbathing. Finally, visit La Huerta de la Partida, the long-neglected orchard of Palacio Vargas. It has been replanted with nearly 900 trees typical of the region, including olives, almonds, pears, figs and quince. Stop at the mirador (viewpoint) for a great view of many of the city's major monuments. Berlin - River Spree Since the fall of the Berlin Wall, this progressive city has strived to maintain a balance between large corporate development projects that bring investment and jobs, and preserving the history and artistic character of its dynamic neighborhoods. It's a fascinating time to witness this struggle for the heart of the city, and a lot of it is playing out along the River Spree, in neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain. World's best hotel restaurants After the wall fell, these areas—on either side of the river—flourished as hip, alternative havens.

Vacant lots became vibrant community gardens and art spaces, and drab apartment blocks became artists' studios, cheerful cooperative living spaces and diverse underground nightclubs. These areas have gentrified considerably, but you'll still find eclectic flea markets, independent designer shops and great global cuisine. Consider taking a walking tour led by the nonprofit Institute for Creative Sustainability , which emphasizes grass-roots efforts to maintain the green, creative character of the neighborhoods. Finally, visit the East Side Gallery, one of the last standing segments of the Berlin Wall, which has become an inspiring artistic monument to peace and freedom. Next, head to Mitte, literally the center, or "middle," of the city. In the middle of the Spree, you'll find Museuminsel (Museum Island), home to several museums that collectively feature 6,000 years of artifacts and art. Close by is the historic Reichstag (German parliament building) with its strikingly modern glass dome and the Berlin Wall Memorial . It's not far from here to other important historic sites like the Monument to the Murdered Jews of Europe and the Brandenburg Gate. Before you go, be sure to visit the famous "beach bars" on the banks of the river.

As you sip your caipirinha or local brew in a beach chair surrounded by palm trees, you'll marvel at how rapidly this city evolves and changes. Lisbon -- Tagus River (Rio Tejo) Centuries ago, the Tagus River launched Portuguese explorers out to sea on their journeys to Asia, Africa and the Americas and guided immigrants into this port city. The exchange of cultures that gives Lisbon its distinctive architectural and culinary character is also apparent in the city's riverfront development, which began in the 1990s when Lisbon was named the European Capital of culture. There are several points from which to embark on the 4.5-mile walk along the river. One nice starting point is the enormous and colorful Praça do Comercio, one of Lisbon's best-known squares. Moving from tradition to trendy, the next stop is Cais do Sodre. Redevelopment rid the area of its reputation for seedy bars and brothels; today it's home to hot clubs and great restaurants. Visit the famous Mercado da Ribeira for fantastic fruits, vegetables and flowers.

Fodor's 100 Hotel Award winners Carry on and you'll arrive at the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga, with its river views and impressive collection of ancient art. Another opportunity for good food and drink awaits at the cafes along the Santo Amaro docks. You'll need your energy for the next leg of your journey to Belem, a neighborhood rich in museums, gardens and cafes. Then again, maybe it's best to save another full day for Belem's treasures. Instead, grab a pasteis de belem (a custard tart) from a traditional bakery, and lose yourself back at the river's edge. London - River Thames The Thames is already a popular tourist destination, but until recently, most visitors didn't make it farther east than the Tower Bridge. That's changing with the impressive transformation of a once bleak wasteland known as the Docklands. Until the mid-20th century, East London's docks supported one of the busiest ports in the world. But between the 1960s and the 1980s, the docks closed as shipping traffic shifted to larger coastal ports, and London was left with more than 5,000 acres of derelict land.

Since the government put a plan in place to revitalize the Docklands in the early 1980s, the area has grown to become a mixture of residential, commercial and light industrial properties, with Canary Wharf—now a major business district and shopping destination—as its centerpiece. The 2012 Olympics provided another huge opportunity to expand waterfront redevelopment, accentuating the contrast between old and new. Today you can wander narrow cobblestone streets to find cafes and historic riverside pubs, and then ascend to spectacular views atop the Shard, a spire-shaped, gleaming glass skyscraper completed in 2012. Don't miss the Museum of London Docklands , which surveys the area's history from Roman times to its recent redevelopment. A fun way to see the Docklands is via the new Emirates Air Line cable cars that cross the river to Greenwich, home of the Royal Observatory, on the South Bank of the Thames. Rent a bike and take it on the cable car to explore the Thames Cultural Cycling Tour, which passes through Greenwich and eventually crosses back to Canary Wharf and historic neighborhoods like Wapping before returning to the South Bank via Tower Bridge.

Question: Which European capital city is on the River Tagus?
Answer: Lisbon